We’re dealing with ankle-deep slush in the parking lots here at Consumerist’s northernmost bureau. Harsh winter weather is harsh for shoes, especially shoes that haven’t been designed to be tough and waterproof. If you’re still waiting for your backordered duck boots, here’s what you should do to keep your shoes looking nice after the snow melts. [More]

Several cheap waterproofing sprays—like Kenyon Water Repellent, Jobsite Heavy Duty Bootmate, Rocky Boot Weather and Stain Protector, and Stand ‘n Seal grout sealer—can cause “shortness of breath, persistent cough and in some cases long-term lung injuries,” writes the New York Times. Unfortunately, you won’t see warnings on any of these products, because the CPSC keeps ignoring state requests to do something about it.